Systems and methods for processing a traffic log having an optional-promotion log entry

ABSTRACT

Disclosed herein are systems and methods for processing a traffic log having an optional-promotion log entry. An example method involves (i) accessing a stored traffic log, wherein the traffic log includes multiple ordered log entries including at least a first log-entry and a second log-entry; (ii) making a first determination that the first log-entry corresponds to a show-segment video-component (VC) of a live news program; (iii) making a second determination that the second log-entry corresponds to an initial show-segment VC of a show, wherein the show is scheduled to follow the live news program; (iv) identifying, among log entries scheduled between the first log-entry and the second log-entry, a set of optional-promotion log entries, each such optional-promotional log entry having a duration; (v) determining a cumulative duration of the optional-promotion log entries in the identified set; and (vi) providing the determined cumulative-duration to an output device for presentation.

Throughout this application, with respect to all reasonable derivatives of such terms, and unless otherwise specified (and/or unless the particular context clearly dictates otherwise), each usage of:

-   -   “a” or “an” is meant to read as “at least one.” “the” is meant         to be read as “the at least one.”     -   the term “video” refers to any material represented in a video         format (i.e., having multiple frames). In some instances, video         may include multiple sequential frames that are identical or         nearly identical, and that may give the impression of a still         image. Video may or may not include an audio portion.     -   the term “video component” (VC) refers to video that one of         ordinary skill in the art would typically consider to be         self-contained, and that is separately scheduled by a traffic         system (also referred to as a scheduling-and-sequencing system)         of a television-broadcasting system.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The disclosed systems and methods relate generally to television-broadcasting technology.

BACKGROUND

A television-broadcasting system typically includes a traffic system that performs functions related to broadcast scheduling. For example, the traffic system may facilitate the creation of a traffic-log (log), which is a broadcast schedule for a given station during a given time period. The log may include multiple ordered log entries, each of which may correspond to a VC. Each log entry may also correspond to a start time, and therefore the log may generally represent the scheduled sequence of VCs intended to be broadcast.

There are several types of VCs, non-limiting examples of which include a show-segment VC, a commercial VC, and a promotion VC. A show-segment VC consists of at least a portion of a show, and potentially one or more commercials. A show may be, for example, an episode of a sitcom, a news program, or a movie. A commercial VC consists of a single commercial. Typically, a television-broadcasting company broadcasts a commercial VC in exchange for payment or other compensation from the provider of the commercial VC. A promotion VC consists of video that promotes something such as an event or another VC. Unlike a commercial VC, the television-broadcasting company typically does not receive a payment or other compensation from a third-party for broadcasting the promotion VC.

The traffic system may communicate with a master control system (MCS), which is the technical hub of a television-broadcasting system and is typically the final point before a VC is sent to an air-chain system for broadcast. More specifically, the traffic system typically communicates with an automation system of the MCS. The automation system is the logic center of the MCS and may cause the MCS and/or another entity to perform various functions.

Through a communication path, the traffic system may provide the log to the automation system such that the automation system may select and process log entries. The automation system may then cause one or more entities to perform certain functions for each selected log-entry at an appropriate time (e.g., at the corresponding start time). For example, the automation system may cause a recording-and-playout device (RAPD) to retrieve and playout a stored VC such that it may be channeled through one or more entities within the MCS (e.g., routers and switchers), and sent to an air-chain system for broadcast. In another example, the automation system may cause a streaming VC received from a streaming-video source to be channeled through the MCS and sent to the air-chain system for broadcast.

An example of a streaming-video source is a live-news-production source (LNPS), which is a component within a news production system (NPS). An NPS is a system configured to produce and/or output a news program in the form of multiple show-segment VCs such that when broadcast, the show-segment VCs may be separated by commercial or other VCs. Each show-segment VC may be output by the LNPS as it is produced, thereby allowing the news program to be broadcast “live.”

Producing a live news program may present certain challenges, particularly with respect to timing issues. For example, it may be challenging to ensure that the timing of a produced show-segment VC is consistent with the timing set forth in the corresponding log. This issue may be further complicated by the fact that a show-segment VC of a live news program is particularly susceptible to having a shorter or longer than expected duration, such as due to a news anchor talking slower or faster than expected, and/or such as due to the addition of breaking news. One approach to addressing this issue involves the NPS providing to a producer, a target duration and a pacing duration for a portion of a live news program as it is being produced. The producer may then relay this information to a news anchor. The pacing duration may be dynamically calculated, such that the news anchor may adjust his or her speed to produce a show-segment VC with the target duration.

SUMMARY

In one aspect, a method involves (i) an automation system accessing a stored television-broadcasting traffic log, wherein the traffic log includes multiple ordered log entries, the log entries including at least a first log-entry and a second log-entry; (ii) the automation system making a first determination that the first log-entry corresponds to a show-segment video-component (VC) of a live news program; (iii) the automation system making a second determination that the second log-entry corresponds to an initial show-segment VC of a show, wherein the show is scheduled to follow the live news program; (iv) the automation system identifying, among log entries scheduled between the first log-entry and the second log-entry, a set of optional-promotion log entries, each such optional-promotional log entry having a duration; (v) the automation system determining a cumulative duration of the optional-promotion log entries in the identified set; and (vi) the automation system providing the determined cumulative-duration to an output device for presentation.

In another aspect, a television-broadcasting system includes an output device; and an automation system connected to the output device via a communication network, wherein the automation system includes a computer-readable medium having stored thereon program instructions that when executed cause the automation system to perform a set of functions. The set includes: (i) accessing a stored television-broadcasting traffic log, wherein the traffic log includes multiple ordered log entries, the log entries including at least a first log-entry and a second log-entry; (ii) making a first determination that the first log-entry corresponds to a show-segment VC of a live news program; (iii) making a second determination that the second log-entry corresponds to an initial show-segment VC of a show, wherein the show is scheduled to follow the live news program; (iv) identifying, among log entries scheduled between the first log-entry and the second log-entry, a set of optional-promotion log entries, each such optional-promotional log entry having a duration; (v) determining a cumulative duration of the optional-promotion log entries in the identified set; and (vi) providing the determined cumulative-duration to the output device for presentation.

In another aspect, a method involves (i) an automation system accessing a stored television-broadcasting traffic log, wherein the traffic log includes multiple ordered log entries, the log entries including at least a first log-entry and a second log-entry; (ii) the automation system making a first determination that the first log-entry corresponds to a show-segment VC of a live news program; (iii) the automation system making a second determination that the second log-entry corresponds to an initial show-segment VC of a show, wherein the show is scheduled to follow the live news program; (iv) the automation system identifying, among log entries scheduled between the first log-entry and the second log-entry, an optional-promotion log entry having a duration; and (v) the automation system providing the duration to an output device for presentation.

In another aspect, a method involves: (i) an automation system accessing a stored television-broadcasting traffic log, wherein the traffic log includes multiple ordered log entries, the log entries including at least a first log-entry and a second log-entry; (ii) the automation system making a first determination that the first log-entry corresponds to a show-segment VC of a live news program; (iii) the automation system making a second determination that the second log-entry corresponds to an initial show-segment VC of a show, wherein the show is scheduled to follow the live news program; (iv) the automation system identifying, among log entries scheduled between the first log-entry and the second log-entry, an optional-promotion log entry; and (v) responsive to the automation system identifying the optional-promotion log entry, the automation system initiating an action.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a simplified block diagram of an example television-broadcasting system.

FIG. 2 is a simplified block diagram of an example traffic system.

FIG. 3 is a simplified block diagram of an example recording-and-playout system.

FIG. 4 is a simplified block diagram of an example news production system.

FIG. 5 is a simplified block diagram of an example master control system.

FIG. 6 is a simplified block diagram of an example air-chain system.

FIG. 7A is a diagram of an example log at a first time.

FIG. 7B is a diagram of the example log of FIG. 7A at a second time.

FIG. 7C is a diagram of the example log of FIG. 7A at a third time.

FIG. 8 is a flow chart illustrating functions in accordance with an example method.

FIG. 9 is a flow chart illustrating functions in accordance with another example method.

FIG. 10 is a flow chart illustrating functions in accordance with another example method.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS I. Overview

As discussed above, a NPS may produce a show-segment VC of a live news program. Further, in response to processing a log entry of a log, an automation system may cause the show-segment VC to be broadcast. The automation system may broadcast the show-segment VC for a predetermined duration before advancing to the next log entry and causing another VC to be broadcast. However, this may cause the show-segment VC to end abruptly from the perspective of a viewer. For example, the show-segment VC may end while a news anchor is in mid-sentence. This may create an undesirable experience for viewers.

As an alternative, an automation system may wait to advance to the next log entry until it receives a request from a master control operator. This may occur after a target duration of the show-segment VC has lapsed, and at a “natural” ending point (e.g., after the news anchor provides concluding remarks). This approach helps ensure that viewers experience a smooth transition from the show-segment VC to another VC. However, by causing the show-segment VC to have a duration that exceeds a target duration, the automation system may cause subsequent log entries to be “behind schedule.” This is sometimes referred to as a “heavy” log. To resolve this issue, the master control operator may modify the log, such as by reducing the duration of a subsequent log entry and/or by removing a subsequent log entry entirely.

In some instances, removing a log entry may have an undesired effect. For example, by removing a log entry that corresponds to a commercial VC, the commercial VC does not get broadcast, and therefore the television-broadcasting company may not receive payment or other compensation from the commercial VC provider. Removing a log entry that corresponds to a promotion VC may also have an undesired effect. While a promotion VC may not generate revenue from a third party, a promotion VC may help increase ratings for the station, and therefore may have an undesired effect if not broadcast.

Notably however, not all promotion VCs provide the same value to a television-broadcasting company when broadcast. For example, some promotion VCs may be less important than others and may be included in the log as filler video during a break period when the television-broadcasting company was unable to sell commercial spots.

An example of the disclosed systems and methods introduces a new type of VC, namely an optional-promotion VC. An optional-promotion VC is similar to a promotion VC, except that, from the perspective of the television-broadcasting company, it is has a relatively lower broadcast value as compared to other types of VCs. For example, the above-described “filler” promotion VCs may instead be designated as optional-promotion VCs. This designation may be made by a traffic manager, for instance.

The presence of an optional-promotional VC in a log may indicate that a given show-segment VC of a live news program may exceed its target duration while minimizing the undesired effects that may result. Indeed, should the show-segment VC exceed the target duration by a duration of the optional-promotion VC, the optional-promotion VC may be removed from the log and its duration may be “shifted” to the duration of the show-segment VC. As such, the extended duration of the show-segment VC may be accommodated at the expense of removing a log entry that was designated as having a relatively low priority.

In an example of the disclosed systems and methods, an automation system may analyze log entries of a log that corresponds, at least in part, to a live news program. Based on this analysis, the automation system may determine a cumulative duration of optional-promotion VCs that exist in the log between the current position in the live news program and the start of the next show. The automation system may then provide the determined cumulative-duration to a display device in the NPS. As such, by monitoring the display device, a producer may easily determine how much “extra” duration may be “shifted” to the show-segment VC should it be needed (and with minimal undesired effects as discussed above). The producer may then relay such information to a news anchor.

As noted above, the automation system may determine the cumulative duration of optional-promotion VCs by analyzing log entries in a log received from the traffic system. In the television-broadcasting industry, traffic systems are provided by multiple vendors and often include distinguishing features. However, for a variety of reasons such as to provide compatibility, many traffic systems create logs according to a general industry-wide standard. Likewise, many automation systems are configured to receive and process logs based on this standard. A log entry based on this standard typically includes certain attributes, including for example a house identifier, a source identifier, an episode identifier, a segment identifier, a start-time type, a start time, a duration, a description and/or one or more auxiliary notations. These attributes may be generated automatically (e.g., by the traffic system) or may be provided by a user such as a traffic manager.

Typically, a log entry includes at least one of a house identifier and a source identifier. If the log entry corresponds to a stored VC, the log entry typically includes a house identifier (sometimes called a “house number”), which identifies the stored VC. Typically, a house identifier is a unique identifier within a given television-broadcasting system, and maps to a file location in a data storage where the VC is stored. As such, by obtaining the house identifier of a log entry, the automation system may use a mapping table to determine the appropriate file location, and may then cause the VC that is stored in that file location to be retrieved and played. In this instance, the log entry may also include a source identifier that identifies a particular RAPD to be used for retrieving and playing the stored VC.

Alternatively, if the log entry corresponds to a streaming VC, the log entry may correspond to a streaming-video source (e.g., an LNPS) that outputs the streaming VC. In one example, the log entry includes a source identifier, which identifies the streaming-video source (e.g., via a mapping table).

If a log entry corresponds to a show-segment VC, the log entry may have a segment identifier (sometimes called a “segment number”) that identifies a particular segment of the show. If the log entry corresponds to a stored show-segment VC, the log entry may further include an episode identifier (sometimes called an “episode number”) that identifies a particular episode of the show

The start-time type indicates how and/or when the start time is determined. The start-time type may be absolute, calculated, or manual. An absolute start-time type indicates that the start time is a fixed time that may be determined before any log entries in the log are processed. This is sometimes referred to as a “hard” start time. A calculated start-time type indicates that the start time is when the automation system completes processing the preceding log entry (i.e., when the VC of the previous log entry has played for its corresponding duration), and may be determined when the start time and duration of the previous log entry are known by the automation system. A manual start-time type indicates that the start time is when a request is received from a user or device, and therefore is determined when the request is received. As such, each log entry may correspond to a start time, but the start time may be unknown until some event occurs.

The duration indicates the duration of the corresponding VC. As with the start time, in some instances, the duration may be unknown until some event occurs (e.g., until the automation system receives a request from a user or device). The description provides a title and/or other information about the corresponding VC. For example, the description may be a title of a particular show or commercial. The one or more auxiliary notations are typically notes that are reviewed by a user (e.g., a traffic manager may provide a note to a master control operator about the corresponding log entry).

The above-described attributes may be stored in corresponding fields in the log entry. For example, the house identifier may be stored in a house-identifier field and the one or more auxiliary notations may be stored in one or more auxiliary-notation fields. Two examples of well-known traffic systems that use the attributes as described above include WO Traffic provided by WideOrbit Inc. of San Francisco, Calif., and OSi-Traffic™ provided by Harris Corporation of Melbourne, Fla.

By analyzing log entries and considering select attributes as described above, the automation system may determine a cumulative duration of select optional-promotion VCs in the log.

II. Example Television-Broadcasting System

FIG. 1 shows an example television-broadcasting system, generally designated 100. The television-broadcast system 100 may be configured to perform a variety of functions that relate to television broadcasting. The television-broadcasting system 100 may include a traffic system 200, a recording-and-playout system (RAPS) 300, an NPS 400, a MCS 500, and an air-chain system 600. The MCS 500 may serve as the hub of the television-broadcasting system 100 and may connect to each of the traffic system 200, the RAPD 300, the NPS 400, and the air-chain system 600. Generally, the television-broadcasting system 100 may be configured such that video may be sent from the RAPS 300, the NPS 400, or another source, through the MCS 500, and to the air-chain system 600 for broadcast.

A. Traffic System

FIG. 2 shows the traffic system 200 in greater detail. The traffic system 200 may be configured for creating and sending a log to the MCS 500, and may include a data storage 202 and a communication interface 204, both of which may be connected to each other via a connection mechanism (e.g., a bus) 206. The traffic system 200 may be configured to store logs in the data storage 202, and to send the stored logs, via the communication interface 204, to the MCS 500. As discussed above, two example traffic systems are WO Traffic provided by WideOrbit Inc. of San Francisco, Calif., and OSi-Traffic™ provided by Harris Corporation of Melbourne, Fla.

B. RAPS

FIG. 3 shows the RAPS 300 in greater detail. The RAPS 300 may be configured to record and/or playout video (e.g., VCs) for use by the MCS 500, and may include a recording-and-playout device (RAPD) 302, a data storage 304, a management system 306, and a communication interface 308, each of which may be connected to each other via a connection mechanism 310.

The RAPD 302 may be configured to record and/or playout video, such as by sending video via the MCS 500 to the air-chain system 600. The RAPD 302 may include an input 312, an output 314, and a data storage 316, all of which may be connected to each other by a connection mechanism (not shown).

The management system 306 may be configured to manage the RAPD 302 by organizing and moving video back-and-forth between the RAPD and the data storage 304. The communication interface 308 may connect the RAPS 300 to the MCS 500 or to another entity. An example of a RAPD is the K2 server provided by Grass Valley™ of San Francisco, Calif.

C. NPS

FIG. 4 shows the NPS 400 in greater detail. The NPS 400 may be configured to produce and/or output streaming VCs. A streaming VC is often received at or shortly before the time when the VC is broadcast

The NPS 400 may include an LNPS 402, a distribution amplifier 404, and an output device 406. The LNPS 402 is any device that outputs a show-segment VC produced in the NPS 400. The LNPS may take the form of, for example, a production control switcher. In one example, the LNPS 402 may provide streaming VCs based on the high-definition serial digital interface (HD-SDI) standard with a data transfer rate of 1.485 Gbps.

The distribution amplifier 404 that may be used to distribute copies of the streaming VCs to multiple destinations. In one example, the LNPS 402 may include an output 408 that is connected to an input 410 of the distribution amplifier 404. Therefore, the streaming VC provided by the LNPS 402 may be distributed to one or more destinations via respective outputs of the distribution amplifier 404, including for example a first output 412, and a second output 414.

The output device 406 may be configured to output data (e.g., data relating to optional-promotion VCs), and may include a communication interface 416 for receiving such data. The output device 406 may take the form of a digital signage device, an example of which is a BetaBrite Class 8-Color LED display provided by Betabrite of Milwaukee, Wis. However, the output device 406 may take other forms and/or may be integrated with other components. For example, the output device may take the form of a display device such as a monitor typically used with a desktop workstation computer.

D. MCS

FIG. 5 shows the MCS 500 in greater detail. The MCS 500 may be configured to receive video, channel the video through one or more sources, and send the video to the air-chain system 600 for broadcast. In one example, the MCS 500 includes a router 502, a stunt switcher 504, a bypass switcher 506, and an automation system 508, each of which may be connected to each other by a connection mechanism (not shown).

1. Router

The router 502 may be configured to channel video by mapping inputs to outputs, and may include one or more inputs, including for example, a first input 510 and a second input 512, and one or more outputs, including for example, a first output 514 and a second output 516. The router 502 may also include a communication interface (not shown). The inputs 510, 512, the outputs 514, 516, and the communication interface may each be connected to each other by a connection mechanism (not shown). Notably, a router may and often does have more inputs than outputs such that it may connect many sources to relatively fewer destinations.

The RAPD 302 may be connected to the router 502 via the output 314 and the input 510. Therefore, the RAPD 302 may send VCs to the router 502. The distribution amplifier 404 may be connected to the router 502 via the output 412 and the input 512. As such, the LNPS 402 may send a streaming VC via the distribution amplifier 404 to the router 502. An example of a router is the Blackmagic Design Videohub provided by Blackmagic Design Pty. Ltd. Of Fremont, Calif.

2. Stunt Switcher

The stunt switcher 504 may be configured to channel video by mapping inputs to outputs, and may include one or more inputs, including, for example, a first input 518 and a second input 520, and one or more outputs, including, for example, an output 526. The stunt switcher 504 may also include a user interface 528, a data storage 530, and a communication interface (not shown).

The inputs 518, 520, the output 526, the user interface 528, the data storage 530, and the communication interface may each be connected to each other by a connection mechanism (not shown). The router 502 may be connected to the stunt switcher 504 via the output 514 and the input 518. The router 502 may also be connected to the stunt switcher 504 via the output 516 and the input 520. Like a router, a stunt switcher may and often does have more inputs than outputs such that it may connect many sources to relatively fewer destinations. An example of a stunt switcher is the Miranda NVISION NVS5100MC provided by NVision, Inc. of Coppell, Tex.

The stunt switcher 504 may further be configured to perform various functions related to digital video effects (DVE). A DVE is an effect module (e.g., in the form of a set of program instructions) that is configured to be executed or “run.” When run, a DVE dynamically manipulates video being channeled through the stunt switcher. Running a DVE may involve using one or more layers known as “keys” to overlay graphics, video, or other media on video. In some instances, running a DVE may involve simply “resetting” the keys, thereby removing any media being overlayed as a result of another DVE being run.

The stunt switcher 504 may be configured to assist a user in designing a DVE, such as via the user interface 528. Once a DVE is designed, the stunt switcher 504 may store the DVE in the data storage 530. In one example, the stunt switcher may store DVEs in respective DVE registers within the data storage 530. The stunt switcher 504 may also store media used in connection with the DVE in the data storage 530. This allows the stunt switcher 504 to retrieve media as needed. For example, when running a DVE, the stunt switcher 504 may retrieve media from a particular graphic or video register in the data storage 530 as indicated by the DVE. Media may be stored in the data storage 530 in a variety of manners, such as via a file transfer protocol (FTP). As such, by overwriting media stored in the data storage 530, the result of a DVE that is run may be changed.

Once a DVE is designed and stored in the data storage 530, the stunt switcher 504 may then retrieve and run the DVE. In some instances, this may occur in response to a request being received from a user (e.g., via the user interface 528) or from the automation system 508. Accordingly, when a stunt switcher runs a DVE, a VC that is being channeled through the stunt switcher 504 may be dynamically manipulated. This manipulated video may then be sent through the bypass switcher 506 and to the air-chain system 600 for broadcast as described in greater detail below.

3. Bypass Switcher

The bypass switcher 506 may be configured to channel video by mapping inputs to outputs. The bypass switcher 506 may include at least one input including, for example, a first input 532 and a second input 534, and at least one output including, for example, an output 536. The bypass switcher 506 may also include a communication interface (not shown). The inputs 532, 534, the output 536, and the communication interface may all be connected to each other by a connection mechanism (not shown). The stunt switcher 504 may be connected to the bypass switcher 506 via the output 526 and the input 532. A bypass switcher may and often does have multiple inputs and a single output such that it may connect many sources to relatively fewer destinations.

Accordingly, provided that the router 502, the stunt switcher 504, and the bypass switcher 506 all have the appropriate input-to-output mappings, a VC sent from the RAPD 402 to the MCS 500 may be channeled through the entities in the MCS and sent out the MCS. Likewise, provided that the router 502, the stunt switcher 504, and the bypass switcher 506 all have the appropriate input-to-output mappings, a streaming VC sent from the NPS 400 to the MCS 500 may be channeled through the entities in the MCS and sent out the MCS.

In some instances, the distribution amplifier 404 may be connected directly to the bypass switcher 506 (e.g., via the output 414 and the input 534). This configuration may provide for a back-up solution in the event that a device such as the router 502 or stunt switcher 504 malfunctions. If such an event occurs while using this configuration, a master control operator may simply change the input-to-output mappings on the bypass switcher 506 to cause the streaming-video source 402 to send video to the air-chain system 600 for broadcast.

4. Automation System

The automation system 508 may be configured to perform or to cause performance of one or more functions related to the television-broadcasting system 100. The automation system 508 may include a processor 538, a data storage 540, a user-interface 542 (e.g., including a display device), and a communication interface 544, all of which may be connected by a connection mechanism (not shown). The processor 538 may include one or more general-purpose processors (e.g., microprocessors) and/or special-purpose processors (e.g., digital signal processors and/or application specific integrated circuits).

The data storage 540 may include one or more volatile and/or non-volatile storage components and may be integrated in whole or in part with the processor 538. The data storage 540 may take the form of a non-transitory computer-readable medium and may include a set of program instructions, that when executed by the automation system 508 (e.g., by the processor 538), cause performance of a set of functions. For example, the automation system 508 may cause the RAPS 300, the NPS 400, the MCS 500, the air-chain system 600, an entity included therein, and/or another entity to perform one of more of the functions described in this disclosure. The automation system 508 may cause such functions to be performed by sending instructions and/or other data via a corresponding communication interface and/or connection mechanism to the appropriate device.

The automation system 508 may receive data via the same path. In one example, the automation system 508 sends and receives data according to a video disk control protocol (VDCP). For example, the automation system 508 may receive from the bypass switcher 506, an indication of the input-to-output mappings used by the bypass switcher such that the automation system may determine whether a scheduled VC was actually sent to the air-chain system 600 for broadcast. The automation system 508 may use these indications to generate an as-run log, which is a report of what was actually broadcast.

In some instances, the automation system 508 may perform functions described herein as being performed by the traffic system 200. Likewise, in some instances, the traffic system 200 may perform functions described herein as being performed by the automation system 508. This may be the case, for example, where the traffic system 200 and the automation system 508 operate using a “live log” approach, where the traffic system 200 may be configured to query the automation system 508, manage the log and make scheduling-related decisions itself, and provide log entries (perhaps one at a time) to the automation system for processing.

E. Air-Chain System

FIG. 6 shows the air-chain system 600 in greater detail. The air-chain system 600 may be configured to prepare and broadcast video received from the MCS 500 to an audience. The air-chain system 600 may include an encoder 602 and an outbound-broadcast device (OBD) 604.

The encoder 602 may be configured to receive video from a source entity, generate a transport stream (TS) (that includes the video), and send the generated TS to a destination entity. The TS may be described as including video, meaning that the TS includes the encoded representation of the video, among other things. The encoder 602 may include an input 606 and an output 608, each of which may be connected by a connection mechanism (not shown). The bypass switcher 506 may be connected to the encoder 602 via the output 534 and the input 606.

In one example, the encoder 602 may generate a TS by, among other things, encoding video based on the HD-SDI standard to video based on the MPEG 2 standard. An example of an encoder is the NetVX provided by Harris Corporation of Melbourne, Fla.

The OBD 604 may be configured to receive a TS from a source entity, and broadcast the TS (i.e., including video) to multiple destination entities for viewing by an audience. The OBD 604 may include an input 610, and the encoder 602 may be connected to the OBD via the output 608 and the input 610.

The term television-broadcast as used in this disclosure refers broadly to the distribution of video to an audience, and is not meant to be limited to distribution of video in any particular manner. Accordingly, the OBD 604 may take the form of a transmitter, satellite, or terrestrial fiber transmitter (e.g., any of which may correspond with a service provider). As another example, the OBD 604 may also take the form of a network connection (e.g., for broadcasting the TS to an audience via the Internet).

The television-broadcasting system 100 described above is one non-limiting example. The disclosed systems may include some or all of the entities and/or components discussed above, and/or they may be arranged in different ways as would be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art. Also, the described connections between entities need not be direct connections, but could instead be indirect connections (i.e., with one or more intervening components being present).

III. Example Log

Each of FIGS. 7A-7C shows an example log 700 at a different time. The log 700 has rows of log entries 702 (specifically, 702-1 through 702-14) that the automation system 508 may select and process. The log 700 covers a one hour time period from 7:00:00 to 8:00:00 (times and time periods are represented in “hours:minutes:seconds” format). The log 700 corresponds to a live news program entitled News A (except the last log-entry 702-14, which corresponds to an episode of a sitcom entitled Sitcom A.).

As the automation system 508 processes the log entries 702, the automation system may determine attributes that were previously unknown. As such, the automation system 508 may update the log 700 with attributes as it processes the log entries 702. To illustrate this concept, each of FIGS. 7A-7C shows the log 700 at a different time. FIG. 7A shows the log 700 at time 7:00:00, FIG. 7B shows the log at time 7:08:00, and FIG. 7C shows the log 700 at time 7:49:30. It should be noted that the log entries 702 and attributes used for the example log 700 are for illustration purposes and do not necessarily reflect actual values in any particular log.

Each log entry 702 includes multiple attributes. As shown in log 700 from left to right, each log entry 702 may include a start time, a start-time type, a duration, a segment identifier, a description, a source identifier, and a house identifier. In some instances, a log entry may have alternative attributes. The log 700 will now be discussed with respect to each of the times 7:00:00, 7:08:00, and 7:49:30 as shown in FIGS. 7A, 7B, and 7C, respectively.

A. Log at Time 7:00:00 (FIG. 7A)

Referring now to FIG. 7A, at time 7:00:00, the log entry 702-1 includes a start time of 7:00:00, a start-time type of calculated, a segment identifier of 1, a description of News A, and a source identifier of an LNPS (in this example referring to the LNPS 402). Notably, other identifier may also be used as LNPS identifiers.

As another example, the log entry 702-2 includes a start-time type of manual, a duration of 0:00:30, a description of Commercial A, a source identifier of RAPD (in this example referring to the RAPD 302), and a house identifier of S546785.

Since the log entry 702-1 is immediately followed by the log entry 702-2 that has a start-time type of manual, at time 7:00:00 the start time of the log entry 702-2 is unknown. However, upon the automation system 508 receiving a request (e.g., from a user) to process the log entry 702-2, the automation system may determine the duration of the log entry 702-1 and the start time of the log entry 702-2.

B. Log at Time 7:08:00 (FIG. 7B)

Referring now to FIG. 7B, assuming that the automation system 508 receives the request at time 7:08:00, at time 7:08:00 the automation system 508 may determine that the duration of the log entry 702-1 is 0:08:00 and that the start time of the log entry 702-2 is 7:08:00. Further, since the log entries 702-3, 702-4, and 702-5 each have a start-time type of calculated, at 7:08:00, the automation system 508 may also determine the start times of the log entries 702-3, 702-4, and 702-5. However, since the log entry 702-6 has a start-time type of manual, at time 7:08:00 the automation system 508 may still be unable to determine the duration of the log entry 702-5 and the start time of the log entry 702-6.

C. Log at Time 7:49:30 (FIG. 7C)

Referring now to FIG. 7C, assuming the automation system 508 receives a request to process the log entry 702-8 at time 7:49:30, at time 7:49:30 the automation system 508 may determine the start time of each log entry 702-8, 702-9, 702-10, and 702-11 (in the manner described above). Further, since at time 7:49:30 the log entry 702-12 has a known start time (since the log entry 702-12 has a start-time type of absolute), the automation system 508 may also determine the duration of the log-entry 702-11.

IV. Example Methods

FIG. 8 shows a flow chart illustrating functions in accordance with an example method. The description of the method is accompanied by references to the log 700 as shown in FIGS. 7A, 7B, and 7C to illustrate select functions.

At block 802, the method may involve the automation system 508 accessing a stored log. The log may include log entries including at least a first log-entry and a second log-entry. For example, the automation system 508 may access the log 700 that includes the log-entry 702-5 and the log entry 702-14. In one example, the automation system 508 may receive the log 700 from the traffic system 200.

At block 804, the method may involve the automation system 508 making a first determination that the first log-entry corresponds to a show-segment VC of a live news program. For example, the automation system 508 may make a first determination that the log entry 702-5 corresponds to a show-segment VC of the live news program News A.

The automation system 508 making the first determination may involve the automation system determining that a source identifier stored in a source-identifier field of the first log-entry corresponds to an LNPS (such as based on a source list identifying which sources provide VCs from a LPNS). For example, the automation system 508 may determine that the log entry 702-5 corresponds to an LNPS since the log entry 702-11 includes an LNPS identifier (i.e., LNPS) in the source-identifier field.

At block 806, the method may involve the automation system 508 making a second determination that the second log-entry corresponds to an initial show-segment VC of a show, where the show is scheduled to follow the live news program. For example, the automation system 508 may make a second determination that the log entry 702-14 corresponds to an initial (i.e., sequentially first) show-segment of the show Sitcom A.

The automation system 508 making the second determination may involve the automation system determining that the description of the second log-entry is different from a description of a log entry that corresponds to a previously scheduled show-segment VC. For example, the automation system may determine that the description of Sitcom A (in the log entry 702-14) is different from the description News A (in the log-entry 702-11). As such, the automation system 508 may determine where in the log one show ends and another show begins based on the change of descriptions. Further, the automation system 508 making the second determination may involve the automation system determining that the second log entry includes a segment identifier of 1 (indicating that it is the initial show-segment of the corresponding show). In addition or in the alternative, the automation system 508 making the second determination may involve determining that the first and second log entries correspond to different sources (e.g., based on the respective source-identifiers).

At block 808, the method may involve the automation system 508 identifying, among log entries scheduled between the first log-entry and the second log-entry, a set of optional-promotion log entries, each such optional-promotional log entry having a duration. For example, the automation system 508 may identify, among the log entries 702-6 through 702-13, a set of optional-promotion log entries, namely log entries 702-6 and 702-12 (assuming no other optional-promotion log entries are included between log entries 702-7 and 702-8). As used in this context, a set refers to one or more log entries. Also, as used in this context, an optional-promotion log entry refers to a log entry that corresponds to an optional-promotion VC. Notably, while the log entry 702-3 is an optional-promotion log entry, the log entry 702-3 is not included in the identified set because it precedes the active log entry 702-5. Similarly, any other optional-promotion VCs that follow the log entry 702-14 would not be included in the identified set.

The function at block 808 may involve the automation system 508 determining that each optional-promotion log entry in the identified set includes a respective house identifier having a predefined prefix. For example, the function at block 808 may involve the automation system 508 determining that the log entry 702-6 includes a house identifier OP854556 having a prefix “OP.” Likewise, the automation system 508 may determine that the log entry 702-12 includes a house identifier OP846277 having the prefix “OP.” However, other predefined prefixes may be used as a basis for determining whether a log entry is an optional-promotion log entry. Notably, a traffic manager or other individual may assign such a predefined prefix to a house identifier when creating a log to designate a corresponding VC as an optional-promotion VC.

Each optional-promotion log entry in the identified set may include a duration. For example, the log entry 702-6 includes a duration of 0:00:30 and the log entry 702-12 also includes a duration of 0:00:30. At block 810, the method may involve the automation system 508 determining a cumulative duration of the optional-promotion log entries in the identified set. For example, the automation system 508 may determine a cumulative duration of 0:01:00 by adding the duration 0:00:30 of log entry 702-6 and the duration 0:00:30 of log entry 702-12.

At block 812, the method may involve the automation system 508 providing the determined cumulative-duration to an output device for presentation. For example, the automation system 508 may provide the determined cumulative-duration of 0:01:00 to the output device 406 for presentation. In some instances, the automation system 508 may provide the determined cumulative-duration to the output device 406 along with other data (e.g., other timing-related data).

The output device 406 may then output the determined cumulative duration. In one example, the NPS 400 (and therefore the output device 406) may be physically remote from the automation system 508. In such instances, the automation system 508 may send such data over an Internet or other connection mechanism to the output device 406. In one example, the automation system 408 may provide the determined cumulative-duration to the output device 406 contemporaneously while the show-segment VC corresponding to the first log-entry is being broadcast (i.e., when the first log-entry is the active log entry being processed by the automation system 508). In addition or in the alternative, the output device 406 may output the determined cumulative-duration contemporaneously while the show-segment VC corresponding to the first log-entry is being broadcast.

As such, by monitoring the output device 406, a producer may easily determine how much “extra” duration may be “shifted” to the currently broadcasting show-segment VC should it be needed. In one example, the determined cumulative-duration may be presented in addition to the target duration as discussed above. As such, rather than attempting to produce a show-segment VC that has the target duration, the producer may attempt to produce a show-segment VC that has either the target duration or the target duration plus the determined cumulative-duration (or perhaps somewhere in between). Notably, the determined cumulative-duration may be presented in other manners. For example, the output device 406 may output the sum of the target duration and the determined-cumulative duration, perhaps in addition to outputting the target duration.

In the event the show-segment VC exceeds the target duration, a master control operator, or perhaps the automation system 508 may remove one or more of the optional-promotion VCs in the identified set, and/or make other modifications to the log as desired so as to remedy the “heavy” nature of the log caused by the extended duration of the show-segment VC.

In some instances, the automation system 508 may determine and provide to the output device 406 additional data related to the optional-promotion VCs in the identified set. For instance, the automation system 508 may determine a break period in which an optional-promotion VC in the identified set is positioned. For example, the automation system 508 may determine that the log entry 702-6 is positioned in a second break-period (i.e., after the second show-segment VC of the live news program). As another example, the automation system 508 may determine that the log entry 702-12 is positioned in a sixth break-period (i.e., after the sixth show-segment VC of the live news program). Then, the automation system 508 may provide the determined break period and the duration of the optional-promotion VC positioned therein to the 406 output device for presentation. Such additional data may aid a producer in planning ahead. Indeed, such data may inform the producer that an optional-promotion VC is currently available to be removed or moved, but that if no action is taken, it will not be available after the next break (as it will have been broadcast).

In one example, the automation system 508 may perform select functions, in response to detecting a triggering event. A triggering event may involve, for example, the automation system 508 receiving the log or updating the log in some manner. For example, a triggering event may involve the automation system 508 adding or removing a log entry from the log (e.g., in response to a request from a user). As another example, a triggering event may involve the automation system 508 changing a start-time type, a start time, and/or a duration of a log entry in the log (e.g., in response to a request from a user). In one example, select functions, such as those at blocks 804, 806, and 808 may be performed in response to a triggering event.

FIG. 9 shows a flow chart illustrating functions in accordance with another example method. The functions at blocks 902, 904, and 906 parallel the functions at blocks 802, 804, and 806, respectively, and therefore such functions are not repeated in this description. At block 908, the method may involve the automation system 508 identifying, among log entries scheduled between the first log-entry and the second log-entry, an optional-promotion log entry having a duration. At block 910, the method may involve the automation system 508 providing the duration to an output device for presentation. As such, in some instances, rather than outputting a cumulative duration of optional-promotion VCs, in one example, the output device 406 may output a duration of a single promotion VC in the identified set. Each of the variations and examples discussed in connection with the example method in FIG. 8 are also applicable to the example method in FIG. 9.

FIG. 10 shows a flow chart illustrating functions in accordance with another example method. The functions at blocks 1002, 1004, and 1006 parallel the functions at blocks 802, 804, and 806, respectively, and therefore such functions are not repeated in this description. At block 1008, the method may involve the automation system 508 identifying, among log entries scheduled between the first log-entry and the second log entry, an optional-promotion log entry. For example, the automation system 508 may identify, among the log entries 702-6 through 702-13, the log entry 702-6.

At block 1010, the method may involve responsive to the automation system 508 identifying the optional-promotion log entry, the automation system 508 initiating an action. For example, the automation system 508 initiating the action may involve the automation system 508 providing an indication of the identified optional-promotion log entry and/or its duration to an output device for presentation.

As another example, the automation system 508 initiating an action may involve the automation system 508 removing the identified optional-promotion log entry from the log. In one example, initiating such an action may occur in response to another condition. In such an example, the automation system 508 may make a determination that the show-segment VC of the live news program (referenced in block 804/1004) exceeds a target duration. The automation system 508 may then initiate the action responsive to the automation system both identifying the optional-promotion log entry and making the determination. Accordingly, in the event that the show-segment VC of the live news program is expected to exceed its originally expected duration, the automation system 508 may automatically remove an appropriate optional-promotion VC from the log, thereby allowing the show-segment VC to extend its duration (up to the duration of the removed optional-promotion log entry) without causing the log to be heavy.

V. Example Variations

While one or more functions of the disclosed methods have been described as being performed by the certain entities (e.g., the automation system 508), the functions may be performed by any entity, such as those included in the television-broadcasting system 100 described above. Further, the described steps throughout this application need not be performed in the disclosed order, although in some examples, an order may be preferred. Also, not all steps need to be performed to achieve the desired advantages of the disclosed systems and methods, and therefore not all steps are required. Further, the variations described throughout this disclose may be applied to any of the disclosed systems or methods.

Further, while select examples have been described, alterations and permutations of these examples will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art. Other changes, substitutions, and alterations are also possible without departing from the disclosed systems and methods in its broader aspects as set forth in the following claims. 

The invention claimed is:
 1. A method comprising: an automation system accessing a stored television-broadcasting traffic log, wherein the traffic log includes multiple ordered log entries, the log entries including at least a first log-entry and a second log-entry; the automation system making a first determination that the first log-entry corresponds to a show-segment video-component (VC) of a live news program; the automation system making a second determination that the second log-entry corresponds to an initial show-segment VC of a show, wherein the show is scheduled to follow the live news program; the automation system identifying, among log entries scheduled between the first log-entry and the second log-entry, a set of optional-promotion log entries, each such optional-promotional log entry having a duration; the automation system determining a cumulative duration of the optional-promotion log entries in the identified set; and the automation system providing the determined cumulative-duration to an output device for presentation.
 2. The method of claim 1, further comprising the automation system receiving the traffic log from a traffic system.
 3. The method of claim 1, wherein the automation system making the first determination comprises the automation system determining that a source identifier stored in a source-identifier field of the first log-entry corresponds to a live-news-production source.
 4. The method of claim 1, wherein the second log entry includes a description, wherein the automation system making the second determination comprises the automation system determining that the description of the second log-entry is different from a description of a log entry that corresponds to a previously scheduled show-segment VC.
 5. The method of claim 1, wherein the automation system identifying the set of optional-promotion log entries comprises the automation system determining that each optional-promotion log entry in the identified set includes a respective house identifier having a predefined prefix.
 6. The method of claim 1, further comprising the automation system detecting a triggering event, wherein the automation system making the first and second determinations and the automation system identifying the set of optional-promotion log entries occur in response to the automation system detecting the triggering event.
 7. The method of claim 6, wherein the automation system detecting the triggering event comprises the automation system determining that a start time of a log entry in the traffic log has changed.
 8. The method of claim 1, further comprising the output device outputting the determined cumulative-duration.
 9. The method of claim 8, further comprising the automation system causing the show-segment VC to be broadcast, wherein the output device outputting the determined cumulative-duration comprises the output device outputting the determined cumulative-duration contemporaneously while the show-segment VC is being broadcast.
 10. The method of claim 1, further comprising: the automation system determining a break period in which an optional-promotion VC in the identified set is positioned; and the automation system providing the determined break period and the duration of the optional-promotion VC positioned therein to an output device for presentation.
 11. A television-broadcasting system comprising: an output device; and an automation system connected to the output device via a communication network, wherein the automation system includes a computer-readable medium having stored thereon program instructions that when executed cause the automation system to perform a set of functions, the set comprising: accessing a stored television-broadcasting traffic log, wherein the traffic log includes multiple ordered log entries, the log entries including at least a first log-entry and a second log-entry; making a first determination that the first log-entry corresponds to a show-segment video-component (VC) of a live news program; making a second determination that the second log-entry corresponds to an initial show-segment VC of a show, wherein the show is scheduled to follow the live news program; identifying, among log entries scheduled between the first log-entry and the second log-entry, a set of optional-promotion log entries, each such optional-promotional log entry having a duration; determining a cumulative duration of the optional-promotion log entries in the identified set; and providing the determined cumulative-duration to the output device for presentation.
 12. The method of claim 11, the set of functions further comprising receiving the traffic log from a traffic system.
 13. The method of claim 11, wherein making the first determination comprises determining that a source identifier stored in a source-identifier field of the first log-entry corresponds to a live-news-production source.
 14. The method of claim 11, wherein the second log-entry includes a description, wherein making the second determination comprises determining that the description of the second log-entry is different from a description of a log entry that corresponds to a previously scheduled show-segment VC.
 15. The method of claim 11, wherein identifying the set of optional-promotion log entries comprises determining that each optional-promotion log entry in the identified set includes a respective house identifier having a predefined prefix.
 16. The method of claim 11, the set of functions further comprising detecting a triggering event, wherein making the first and second determinations, and identifying the set of optional-promotion log entries occur in response detecting the triggering event.
 17. The method of claim 16, wherein detecting the triggering event comprises determining that a start time of a log entry in the traffic log has changed.
 18. The method of claim 11, the set of functions further comprising: determining a break period in which an optional-promotion VC in the identified set is positioned; and providing the determined break period and the duration of the optional-promotion VC positioned therein to the output device for presentation.
 19. A method comprising: an automation system accessing a stored television-broadcasting traffic log, wherein the traffic log includes multiple ordered log entries, the log entries including at least a first log-entry and a second log-entry; the automation system making a first determination that the first log-entry corresponds to a show-segment video-component (VC) of a live news program; the automation system making a second determination that the second log-entry corresponds to an initial show-segment VC of a show, wherein the show is scheduled to follow the live news program; the automation system identifying, among log entries scheduled between the first log-entry and the second log-entry, an optional-promotion log entry having a duration; and the automation system providing the duration to an output device for presentation.
 20. The method of claim 19, further comprising the automation system causing the show-segment VC to be broadcast, wherein the output device outputting the determined cumulative-duration comprises the output device outputting the determined cumulative-duration contemporaneously while the show-segment VC is being broadcast.
 21. A method comprising: an automation system accessing a stored television-broadcasting traffic log, wherein the traffic log includes multiple ordered log entries, the log entries including at least a first log-entry and a second log-entry; the automation system making a first determination that the first log-entry corresponds to a show-segment video-component (VC) of a live news program; the automation system making a second determination that the second log-entry corresponds to an initial show-segment VC of a show, wherein the show is scheduled to follow the live news program; the automation system identifying, among log entries scheduled between the first log-entry and the second log-entry, an optional-promotion log entry; and responsive to the automation system identifying the optional-promotion log entry, the automation system initiating an action.
 22. The method of claim 21, wherein the action comprises the automation system removing the identified optional-promotion log entry from the traffic log, the method further comprising: the automation system making a third determination that an expected duration of the show-segment VC of the live news program exceeds a target duration, wherein the automation system initiates the action responsive to the automation system (i) identifying the optional-promotion log entry, and (ii) making the third determination. 